7 ways to become “Cutting Edge” The 21

st century business scene is all about rapid change and adaptation. One has to almost be like a decathlete. Growing up

my favorite number was seven. The initial letter of my first name is the 7th

letter of the alphabet of my ethnic heritage. I feel

that seven criteria will be adequate to confirm my opinion on how to thrive in an ever changing business landscape and

ultimately becoming “Cutting Edge”.

With the amount of collateral that is available all over the media today, I have attempted to be as cohesive as possible. The

following criteria will help assemble a satisfactory “Cutting Edge” skill set list. FYI when looking at this list, whether from a

descending or ascending perspective, it is not crucial to shuffle items 1-7 in terms of the hierarchy but to systematically compile

these seven properties:

1. Collaborative.

In a complex business landscape that has co-workers in multiple locations, domestically or internationally, having

collaboration skills is a must have. In many occasions you almost have to act as providing a pleasant customer service

experience with everyone involved in your day to day activities or project assignments.

2. Multi-Domain knowledge.

Competition is fierce and changes happen faster than ever. Having developed a process to acquire Multi-domain

subject knowledge will be an essential component. Keeping up to date with the competition and new trends in your

role is another skill that needs to be embraced along with the awareness of successful business topics and operational

departmental processes.

3. Cultural Awareness.

We’re part of a Global business landscape. Most likely we will have co-workers from various cultural backgrounds and

various parts of the world. Being able to associate in that fashion will be a hallmark skill with which to be equipped.

4. Agility.

Agile is a term that is used frequently in software development. A 21st

century executive needs to be able to be

adaptive, manage tight deadlines and finally do as much as possible with the least resources available.

5. Socially & demographically savvy.

In addition to working with cross cultural peers we also integrate on a day to day basis with various generations.

Being able to associate and discuss common topics is another key attribute. Social media can provide that bridge.

Closing the generational gap since the workforce will have longer tenures before retirement is another trait on the

road to success.

6. Subject matter expertise.

Develop your niche and if you have a couple, add a couple more. Adopt your style in order to connect with both

technical and non-technical personnel. Evolution is a symbol of business quality and your profession is your craft.

7. Crowdsource.

Although this term is used a lot lately, I’m recommending an alternate view of this word, mostly from an analytics

perspective. Utilize and collect the information at hand to be able to make the best decisions possible. In addition to

data, also encourage participation of/from your peers to achieve your goal or decision and welcome the feedback.

This is my observation of what I believe is a list of skills that will contribute in compiling a symbolic emblem that you can

proudly exhibit. In this exponential 21st

century of instant gratification the above attributes will help leave a positive fingerprint

and receive a token of appreciation that will mark the quality of your excellence. Go be “Cutting Edge”.